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Houston Outdoor Fireplaces

  • Thousands of satisfied customers
  • Local and family owned
  • +15 years in business
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Licensed & Insured Masonry Fireplace Construction in Houston, TX

A safe, beautiful fireplace starts with the right foundation. Whether you’re adding warmth to a living room or creating an outdoor focal point, we build code-compliant fireplaces that draft properly, look timeless, and last for decades. When you need Masonry Fireplace Construction Houston TX homeowners can trust, we bring certified expertise and proven methods to every job.

With 15+ years serving Greater Houston, we understand local soils, rooflines, wind exposure, and HOA expectations. Our NFI- and CSIA-certified team handles design, permitting, and inspections from start to finish. You get a fireplace that lights easily, burns cleanly, and enhances your home’s value. Contact us for a free, no-pressure on-site estimate and design options today.

Why Our Professional Masonry Fireplace Construction Delivers Safety, Beauty, and Lasting Value

You’re planning a fireplace for comfort, ambiance, and resale value - but safety and performance come first. Hiring professionals for masonry fireplace construction means the right clearances, draft, and finishes the first time. We manage code, permits, and materials while you choose styles, brick or stone, and accessories. The result: dependable heat, fewer smoke issues, and a beautiful focal point that fits your home.

Safety & Risk Elimination

Your family’s safety is non-negotiable. We build to NFPA 211 and IRC R1001 with correct footings, hearth extensions, and combustibles clearances. Our crews shape the throat and smoke chamber for smooth flow, then size the flue using the 3-2-10 rule to reduce backdrafts. We add top-sealing or throat dampers, chimney caps, and spark arrestors to block rain, pests, and embers.

On roof penetrations, we fabricate chimney flashing and crickets based on roof pitch to prevent leaks. Outdoor units get wind-rated caps suited to Gulf Coast conditions. We can also integrate outside combustion air (R1006) to improve burn quality and help minimize smoke in tight homes.

Professional Results & Quality

We use firebrick (herringbone or running bond) set with refractory mortar meeting ASTM C199/C1655. Flues are clay tile or stainless steel, aligned with centering tools for consistent draft. In living spaces, we finish with cast stone mantels, Texas limestone surrounds, or brick veneer to complement your design.

Our toolset includes laser levels, wet saws with diamond blades, vacuums for silica dust control, and infrared thermometers to confirm proper cure temps. This attention to detail produces straight lines, tight joints, and a firebox that wears evenly over time. Expect clean burns and fewer soot stains on your mantel.

Time & Stress Savings

We streamline every step so you don’t juggle trades or permits. Our team handles City of Houston mechanical permits, coordinates plumbing gas permits with a licensed master plumber (TSBPE), and schedules required inspections. If your neighborhood requires HOA approval, we’ll supply drawings and specs to help you get quick sign-off.

You’ll have one clear project manager, a written schedule, and proactive updates. We source masonry, dampers, caps, and finishes ahead of time to keep your project moving - so you can enjoy your fireplace sooner without surprises.

Cost-Effective Solution

Correct sizing and construction prevent smoky rooms, cracked liners, and expensive rebuilds. We design the firebox, throat, and flue as a system, then specify durable materials that stand up to Houston’s heat and humidity. Thinking about a modular option? We install Isokern (pumice) and Mason-Lite (lightweight concrete) units when they’re the right fit.

Typical projects in Houston start around $12,000–$25,000 for indoor builds and vary for outdoor designs based on height, finishes, and site access. We provide detailed, line-item proposals so you can see where every dollar goes - and where we can adjust to meet your budget.

Peace of Mind & Warranty

We’re insured, background-checked, and trained in OSHA jobsite practices. Our workmanship warranty typically runs 2 years, with manufacturer coverage on components like dampers and caps. After completion, we offer annual CSIA chimney inspections and sweeping to protect your investment and maintain draft performance.

Prefer gas convenience? We coordinate the gas line, pressure test, and log set install with vetted partners, then document compliance. You’ll receive permit records, inspection sign-offs, and care instructions so everything is simple to maintain.

Get a Free Fireplace Estimate Today

Ready to build? We offer fast, no-pressure on-site estimates in Greater Houston with clear pricing and timelines. Tell us your vision - we’ll handle the rest.

How Our Fireplace Construction Process Works

We make the process straightforward, transparent, and code-compliant from the first visit to final walkthrough.

  1. On-Site Consultation – We measure, assess structure and venting paths, review styles, and discuss budget and timeline.
  2. Design & Written Estimate – You’ll receive layout options, materials, finishes, and a fixed-price proposal with schedule.
  3. Permitting & Scheduling – We submit required City of Houston permits and coordinate any HOA paperwork and inspections.
  4. Construction – Our masons build the foundation, firebox, smoke chamber, and chimney, then install dampers, caps, and flashing.
  5. Final Inspection & Handover – We pass inspections, clean up thoroughly, and provide lighting instructions and maintenance tips.

Start in Minutes - We’ll Handle the Paperwork

Permits, inspections, and HOA documents can be a hassle. We take care of them so you don’t have to. Request your walkthrough and design options now.

Why Choose Us for Masonry Fireplace Construction in Houston

At Houston Outdoor Fireplaces, we focus exclusively on hearth and outdoor fire features, bringing specialized skill to each build. Our team has completed thousands of projects across Harris and Fort Bend counties and understands local code, soil, and climate. We lead complex residential builds and retrofits with tight timelines and strict HOA requirements. For Masonry Fireplace Construction Houston TX projects, we deliver precision, safety, and standout design.

Certified Hearth & Masonry Expertise

Our installers carry National Fireplace Institute credentials (Gas, Woodburning, and Hearth Design), with leadership holding NFI Master Hearth Professional status. We also maintain CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep certification for proper flue systems and smoke chamber parging. Memberships include HPBA, Texas Masonry Council (TMC), and Associated Masonry Contractors of Houston (AMCH), keeping us aligned with best practices and BIA technical resources.

This training shows up in the details - proper firebox proportions, Rumford fireplace layouts when requested, and correct liner choices for long-term performance.

Licensed, Insured, and Safety-First

We’re fully insured and follow an OSHA silica dust safety plan with vacuum dust collection, PPE, and site protection. As of December 1, 2023, the City of Houston requires permits for vented fireplaces; we handle submittals, inspections, and compliance for mechanical and gas scopes.

Where gas is involved, we coordinate a licensed master plumber (TSBPE) for gas lines and pressure tests. We document hearth and mantel clearances and verify chimney height to meet the 3-2-10 rule.

Right Tools, Better Results

Our crews use laser levels, wet saws with diamond blades, hammer drills, grinders with dust control, and flue alignment tools. We check cure and heat with infrared thermometers before first burn. Materials include refractory mortar, firebrick in herringbone patterns, angle iron lintels, top-sealing dampers, and stainless, copper, or galvanized chimney caps with spark arrestor screens.

The outcome is consistent draft, neat joints, and finishes that elevate your space - whether cast stone surrounds, Texas limestone, or brick veneer.

Local Knowledge & Code Compliance

We routinely work in Houston Heights, Montrose, River Oaks, West U, Bellaire, Memorial, Spring Branch, and Katy, plus Pearland, Sugar Land, The Woodlands, and Pasadena. We structure footings for expansive soils, design crickets for low-slope roofs, and spec wind-resistant caps for storm-prone areas.

Our builds follow IRC Chapter 10 (R1001, R1003, R1006) and NFPA 211. For modular assemblies like Isokern and Mason-Lite, we follow UL 127 and UL 103 HT for connected systems.

Customer-First Scheduling & Warranty

We provide reliable timelines, daily site cleanup, and clear communication. Most retrofit masonry fireplaces take 5–10 working days depending on complexity; modular builds can be faster. You’ll receive a written workmanship warranty, manufacturer documentation, and post-project support, including annual inspection reminders.

Our goal is a fireplace that lights easily, burns cleanly, and becomes your favorite gathering place - without the headaches.

Certified Pros You Can Trust - Let’s Talk

NFI- and CSIA-certified installers, insured crews, and documented code compliance. Share your project details and get a tailored plan and quote.

Expert Masonry Fireplace Construction Backed by Years of Local Experience

We’ve designed and built indoor and outdoor hearths across the Greater Houston area - from Midtown townhomes to River Oaks estates and Katy new construction. Our portfolio includes traditional wood-burning units, Rumford-style fireplaces, and modular systems. When you’re comparing teams for Masonry Fireplace Construction Houston TX, our track record shows careful planning, clean jobsites, and first-time inspection approvals.

Types of Projects We Handle

Residential and commercial: indoor living rooms, outdoor patio fireplaces with full-height chimneys, two-sided see-through features, and corner configurations. We also tackle chimney rebuilds with new fireboxes, mantel and surround replacements, and conversions from wood to gas with proper permits.

Looking for specialty work? We install Rumford high-efficiency wood fireplaces for strong radiant heat and can design masonry heaters upon request. Modular options like Isokern and Mason-Lite are available when weight or schedule demands a lighter assembly.

Our Proven Methods & Standards

We start with IRC R1001-compliant footings and correct clearances. Fireboxes are built from firebrick with refractory mortar, then smoke chambers are parged smooth to encourage laminar flow. Flue sizing follows the 3-2-10 rule and manufacturer tables where applicable.

At the roof, we install step and counter-flashing with crickets as needed, top-sealing dampers for energy savings, and stainless chimney caps with spark arrestors. Indoor finishes range from cast stone mantels to limestone or brick veneers sized for proper hearth extensions and mantel clearances.

Complex Situations We’ve Mastered

Historic Heights retrofit: We rebuilt a 1920s smoke-prone fireplace with a new firebox, parged smoke chamber, and correctly sized clay liner - eliminating room smoke on first burn. Timeline: 9 working days; chimney height adjusted to meet 3-2-10.

River Oaks new build: A limestone-clad Rumford fireplace with a see-through opening to an adjacent lounge, constructed with a stainless liner and top-sealing damper for better control. Completed in 3 weeks including inspections and custom cast stone lead time.

Results You Can Expect

Strong draft, easier starts, and cleaner glass and surrounds. Typical indoor builds complete in 5–10 days; outdoor units vary by height and masonry complexity. We provide burn-in guidance, maintenance schedules, and annual inspection options so your fireplace performs season after season.

See Projects Like Yours

Ask us for recent local examples - materials, finishes, and before/after timelines. We’ll show you what’s possible in your neighborhood.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to build a masonry fireplace in Houston?
Pricing depends on location, chimney height, materials, and finish details. In Houston, many indoor masonry fireplaces range from $12,000–$25,000+, while outdoor units vary with chimney height, stone choice, and site access. Rumford layouts, cast stone surrounds, and taller stacks add cost. We provide a detailed, line-item estimate after an on-site visit, including permits and inspections for your ZIP code and HOA, if required.
Do I need a permit for a fireplace installation in Houston, TX?
Yes. As of December 1, 2023, the City of Houston requires permits for vented fireplaces. Projects often include a mechanical permit and, for gas, a plumbing permit and pressure test by a licensed master plumber. We handle submittals, drawings, inspections, and coordination with Houston or Harris County as applicable, plus HOA packets when needed.
How long does it take to build a masonry fireplace?
Most retrofit masonry fireplaces take about 5–10 working days once permits are approved. New construction can be integrated into the build schedule. Modular systems (Isokern, Mason-Lite) may shorten timelines. Weather, chimney height, and custom finishes like cast stone or Texas limestone can extend duration. We provide a written schedule so you know what to expect day by day.
Can you add a masonry fireplace to an existing home?
Yes. We regularly retrofit fireplaces into existing homes in Houston Heights, Montrose, Bellaire, and Katy. We evaluate structure, route the chimney, and design proper footings and clearances to meet IRC R1001 and NFPA 211. If weight is a concern, we may recommend a modular system to reduce load while maintaining the look of traditional masonry.
What is the difference between a masonry fireplace and a prefab fireplace?
A masonry fireplace is built on-site from brick, block, and firebrick with a masonry chimney. A prefab (factory-built) unit is a UL 127–listed appliance with a tested metal chimney system. Masonry offers custom sizing, Rumford options, and long-term durability; prefab is lighter, faster to install, and often lower cost. We install both and recommend based on your goals and structure.
What is a Rumford fireplace and is it more efficient?
A Rumford fireplace uses a tall, shallow firebox with a streamlined throat and smooth parged smoke chamber to reflect more radiant heat. Properly designed, it drafts well and throws noticeable warmth into the room. We design and build code-compliant Rumford fireplaces in Houston and can finish them with brick, limestone, or cast stone to fit your space.
Is a chimney liner required for a wood-burning masonry fireplace?
Yes, a properly sized flue lining is required. Most masonry fireplaces use clay tile liners; in some cases, stainless steel liners are preferred, especially for retrofits or unique routing. The liner must match the firebox opening and meet NFPA 211 and IRC sizing. We select and install the correct liner for safe draft and longevity.
How tall should a chimney be for proper draft?
We follow the 3-2-10 rule: the chimney must be at least 3 feet above the roof penetration and 2 feet higher than any part of the structure within 10 feet. Roof pitch, nearby structures, and prevailing winds in Greater Houston can require additional height. We confirm final height during design and adjust as needed for reliable draft.
Do you coordinate gas lines and permits for gas log sets?
Absolutely. For gas log sets or conversions, we coordinate a licensed master plumber (TSBPE) for gas piping, pressure tests, and the plumbing permit. Our team handles the mechanical permit and inspections, then installs the burner, log set, damper stop, and cap as required. You’ll get a fully permitted, code-compliant installation in Houston or the surrounding counties.
Which areas and ZIP codes do you serve for on-site estimates?
We serve the Greater Houston area, including Houston Heights, Montrose, River Oaks, West U, Bellaire, Memorial, Spring Branch, Cypress, Katy, Sugar Land, Pearland, Pasadena, Deer Park, and The Woodlands. Common ZIPs include 77005, 77006, 77007, 77008, 77009, 77024, 77027, 77056, 77057, 77063, 77079, 77084, 77095, 77494, 77379, 77584, 77380, and 77536. Ask about same-day estimates when our schedule allows.

Still Comparing Options?

We’re happy to answer questions, review plans, or price alternatives like Rumford or modular systems. Reach out - no obligation, just helpful guidance.